National Assembly Member Mohammad Asghar has welcomed news that Newport Councillors have rejected plans which would have led to the opening of a new Tesco Express store in Somerton, Newport.
Hundreds of signatures had been collected in opposition to the plan.
Mr Asghar, who represents South Wales East at the National Assembly, said: “I am delighted that the views of local people and businesses have been considered with regards to this application.
“Many of my constituents were very passionate in opposing the plans. I was delighted to make representation on their behalf”.
Members of Newport Council’s planning committee have voted against the plans.
The Shadow Minister for Equality added: “I was deeply concerned at the impact a successful planning application could have had on a number of local businesses and families”.
Earlier this year, in a letter printed in the South Wales Argus, Mr Asghar said: “Supermarkets are often very convenient and create jobs – but people should not forget the contribution that small shops and traders make to our community; often providing first-class produce and a personal service.
“I urge people to remember their local shops and the service they provide our communities and the diversity they offer our society”.
